This year marked the launch of the Training Committee, a new and essential arm of our campus union, with Chrystin Green stepping up as its inaugural chair. With a deep commitment to empowering union members through knowledge, Green is leading a small but dedicated team of 5–6 members in building a strong foundation for training and education across the chapter.

One of the committee's first milestones was participating in last month's Committee Chair Workshop—a session focused on the practical and human aspects of leadership: how to request release time, delegate tasks, and, just as importantly, how to keep meetings engaging and on track. As someone who had to train herself while stepping into this leadership role, Green knows firsthand the value of accessible, clear guidance.

The Training Committee has already begun organizing a series of Informational Trainings for members, including Know Your Negotiation History and Know Your Contract workshops. These sessions aim to demystify the union contract, spotlight members’ rights and benefits, and remind all of us that knowledge is power—especially when it comes to shaping our work environment and holding management accountable.

“Our goal is to make sure people have the tools they need to protect themselves and each other,” says Green. “We want trainings to be informative, but also enjoyable and approachable.”

Currently, the committee is reviewing a long list of potential trainings—around 20 in total—and working to prioritize based on feedback from union meetings and emerging member needs. The plan is to host at least one training each month, with some core sessions like the Committee Chair Training happening annually, or even semi-annually.

The Training Committee also takes on all the behind-the-scenes logistics: coordinating schedules, sending calendar invites, managing outreach, and securing training locations. With such a lean team, they’re looking to bring on one or two more volunteers, especially those willing to help with administrative and planning tasks. If you're interested, you're encouraged to reach out directly to Chrystin Green.

So who is the person driving this effort? Chrystin Green brings a wealth of experience and passion to the table. A lab technician in the Physics Department with a background as an adjunct professor, she’s been working on campus for three years. She also sits on the Chapter’s Executive Board. Known for her successful Shared Governance training, she was tapped by union leader Brandon Gillette to head up the new committee thanks to her motivating leadership style and strong sense of member-first advocacy. When she’s not in the lab or leading a training, you might find her crocheting or chatting with colleagues about anything from science to union strategy.

As the Training Committee moves forward, it continues to lay the groundwork for a more informed, connected, and confident union membership. With leadership like Green’s and the support of engaged members, this new committee is off to a strong start.

Interested in joining the Training Committee?
Contact Chrystin Green to learn more and lend a hand with upcoming trainings!